Department of Biomedical Science

1st in the UK for medical research excellenceResearch Excellence Framework 2014

Top 10 in the UK for biological sciencesThe Complete University Guide 2018

Top 5 for biological researchResearch Excellence Framework 2014

Course description

You'll study everything from the gene to whole body systems. We want you to graduate with a thorough understanding of the genetic and molecular processes that underpin the development, structure and function of the human body in health and disease.

The first two years give you a grounding in the molecular and cellular basis of life. You will have the opportunity to carry out human dissection, supervised by a member of staff.

In your third year you will have the opportunity to go on out on work placement. These placements cover both lab and non-lab based positions, and include opportunities to work for large global companies.

In the fourth year, we expect you to be more independent. You'll have the opportunity to specialise in areas that interest you, for example medical sciences, molecular physiology, neuroscience, developmental biology and pharmacology. We ask for more critical thinking from you at this level and a better understanding of existing research. You will also complete a research project of your own.

Science subjects include Chemistry, Biology (or Human Biology), Maths (or Further Maths) or Physics.
Chemistry with Psychology OR Chemistry with Geography also acceptable.
Students with Psychology or Geography as a second science without A Level Chemistry but with AS Level Chemistry also considered.
Further Maths is accepted as a third science when Maths is also taken

A Level in General Studies is not accepted

For this course, we may not be able to accept a language qualification designed for non-native speakers from a native speaker and we will consider such applications on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Admissions Service for advice on the suitability of your qualifications portfolio.

International students need an overall IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component, or an equivalent English language qualification

The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers.

In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

Learning and assessment

These figures give an indication of how you'll learn and be assessed. They're a combined average of all the years of the course. The learning and assessment percentages could vary depending on the modules you choose.

Learning

Scheduled teaching

14%

Independent study

61%

Placement

25%

Assessment

Exams/tests

42%

Coursework

43%

Practical

15%

Department of Biomedical Science

You'll be taught by leading scientists who are respected experts in their chosen fields. Cutting-edge research takes place in our department, and there are opportunities for you to get involved.

Our research-led teaching ensures you'll gain knowledge and understanding from the forefront of modern biology. The extensive research infrastructure, including advanced microscopy and sophisticated molecular screening facilities, is integrated into our teaching.

The timetable is a mixture of lectures, practical classes, projects and tutorials. To enhance your experience, there's a virtual learning environment with interactive course materials. Throughout your course, you'll have a personal tutor to give you advice and guidance.

What our graduates do

Many are employed in the biomedical research, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Others choose further study, completing PhDs and masters courses in the biosciences, or study in areas such as medicine, veterinary science, physiotherapy and teaching. Our students have also gone on to careers in the scientific civil service, the NHS, the software sector, Medical communication and management. Others have launched their own businesses.

Applicant open days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our applicant open days, which take place between November and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

Campus tours
Campus tours run regularly throughout the year, at 1pm every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.